�The Wife�s Lament� translated by Ann Stanford is a classic Anglo-Saxon poem. As with much Anglo-Saxon literature, exile is the prominent theme. This exile is the cause of anger and sorrow, as well as, longing. As the story is revealed, these feelings come forth. Exile is displayed as the cause for the story.
The wife narrates this poem. This point of view gives the story a personal, intimate feel. The reader can see into her actual thoughts. Literary devices include the caesura, which makes it easier to recite. This allows the reader to concentrate on the theme of exile, rather that being muddled by words. There is also alliteration, such as �hills high,� �hard his heart�s thought,� and �a blithe bearing.� There are really no references to either Christian or Pagan beliefs.
His family splits the wife up with her husband. Her husband makes her leave the home. This is her exile. She is alone and grieving. It angers her that her husband broke their marriage vow. Still, she longs for him. She will never be rid of this hurt and wishes hardships and exiles upon her husband.
The theme of �The Wife�s Lament� is exile and the feelings that are produced due to it. The wife is exiled. This changes her life completely. She is full of emotions. They are anger, sorrow, vengeance, and longing. The whole poem revolves around the theme of exile. |
